Demoralising defeat

"The manner of the defeat last Saturday gave us plenty to think about," explained Stuttgart president Bernd Wahler. "We've analysed the impact it's had on the team and assessed the coaching staff, before coming to a decision this morning."

Zorniger's backroom staff have also been released, with Stuttgart currently occupying the relegation play-off spot after winning three, drawing one and losing nine of their 13 Bundesliga matches so far this season.